The Lord has bared his holy arm before the eyes of all nations;
and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God (Isaiah 52:10)
Isaiah 52: 7-10 begins with the "feet of the messenger" who brings good news and concludes with "the arm of the Lord" -- both of which proclaim salvation for the world.
From foot to arm, from head to toe, God knows us and proclaims into our lives a message of goodness, hope, and promise. In Isaiah 40, comfort is promised. In Isaiah 52, we see the announcement that the promised comfort is upon them. Fully and completely.
Ours is the God who keeps promises and who seeks to bring saving grace to us. In the midst of struggle and pain, God still speaks hope and promise. In the midst of uncertainty and shame, God still speaks love and grace. In the midst of anger and death, God still speaks forgiveness and peace.
It is an afflicting word at times and a comforting word at other times. Indeed, the Gospel "comforts the afflicted" and "afflicts the comfortable." We can be both and hear both.
Still, how wonderful that the Lord bares his purpose of salvation before all? That includes those you don't like, yes. But it also, most assuredly includes you!
Saving God, call us beyond ourselves and into your glorious hope. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment